Some people have ear pain when a plane takes off or lands

Many people feel ear pain or discomfort while traveling by air. This problem is more common especially during takeoff and landing of the plane. The main reason for this (airplane ear pain causes) is the changes in air pressure, which affect the inner part of the ear. Let us understand the causes and prevention measures of this problem (aviation ear pain solutions).

Causes of ear pain on airplanes

Air Pressure Changes

When an airplane rises or descends, the atmospheric pressure changes rapidly. There is a small tube inside our ear called the Eustachian Tube. This tube connects the middle part of the ear and the throat and helps to balance the pressure.

When the altitude of the plane changes, the outside air pressure fluctuates rapidly, but sometimes the Eustachian tube fails to function properly, causing pressure on the eardrum and causing pain.

cold or allergies

If the passenger has a cold, sinus or allergy problem, the Eustachian tube may become blocked due to swelling. This causes the pressure to not be balanced and can cause severe ear pain.

Ear Infection

If a person already has an ear infection, the pain may increase during air travel.

Ways to avoid ear pain in the plane (flying ear pressure tips)

yawn or swallow

Yawning or swallowing frequently opens the Eustachian tube and balances the pressure. Therefore, yawning or maintaining throat movement during an airplane descent or ascent can relieve ear pain.

Chew gum or candy

Chewing gum or eating candy stimulates saliva production and increases swallowing, which reduces ear pressure. This is especially useful for children.

Valsalva Maneuver

In this technique, try to expel air slowly from the nose by pressing the nose lightly and closing the mouth. This balances the pressure inside the ear with the pressure outside.

take a nasal steam or decongestant

If you have a cold, you can steam your nose before traveling or use a decongestant medicine (such as nasal spray) as advised by your doctor. This opens the Eustachian tube and balances the pressure.

Use earplugs or pressure-balancing earphones

Certain types of earplugs (such as “earplanes”) help reduce pressure changes during air travel, thus preventing ear pain.

Take special care of children

Young children have narrower Eustachian tubes, so they may feel more pain. Feed them milk or give them a pacifier during takeoff and landing so that swallowing action reduces ear pressure.